In the process of development of mankind, the importance of light has been very significant. On a basic note, the existence of life depends on the photosynthesis process – which is entirely a light based phenomenon! The application of light and light-based technologies revolutionized the field of medicine, communication, entertainment, culture - which in turn made a strong impact on the society globally. So, after the highly successful International Year of Light and Light-based Technologies 2015, UNESCO has endorsed 16th May as annual International Day of Light (IDL) . The reason behind choosing this particular date as IDL, is the anniversary of the first successful operation of Laser in the year 1960 by physicist and engineer, Theodore Maiman. Keeping in mind that IDL is not just about Lasers and science, it also includes the sustainable development and growth of societal health and well-being, we are very happy to announce that SPIE students are going to celebrate the IDL in the Department of Physics, IIT Guwahati on the day 16th May, 2026.

The event will comprise of general talk on light by eminent Prof. Rakesh K. Singh, Professor, Dept. of Physics, IIT BHU, Prof. Pravat Kumar Giri, Professor, Department of Physics, IIT Guwahati, Dr. Debabrata Sikdar, Associate Professor, Department of EEE, IIT Guwahati and Dr. Rishi Maiti, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, IIT Guwahati. Apart from gaining knowledge in the talk theoretically, there will be a Quiz session based on the fascinating science of light in our surroundings, followed by a visit to the Central Instrument Facility (CIF), where students will have the opportunity to explore advanced research instruments, providing a valuable and enriching learning experience. -->